So without wasting time let' go one by one.
1. Bhandardara -
Bhandardara is picturesque village in lap of Sahyadri ranges aka Western ghats of India. Many of us might have noticed this place in bollywood movies songs such as Kahin pe nigahe (Jane tu ya jane na0, Tuz me rab dikhta hai (Rab ne banayi jodi). Blue skies over brownish mountains with crystal clear water makes view so awesome. The clam weather, serene views, relaxing in warm sleeping bag and waking up next morning with eye popping views is something one should never miss. These mountains and views makes anyone to fall in love with this amazing place at very first sight. There are so many camping sites available around lake and dam area. Bhandardara also offers you many trekking options if you wish to go next morning. Tariff for per person may vary from Rs 1000 to Rs 2500. Bhnadardara is approx 170km from both mumbai and pune.
2. Vasota Jungle Camping -
Vasota Jungle camping or Bamnoli camping is little different from all other options to camping in Maharashtra. Vasota or Bamnoli is part of tiger reserve area so experience here is different from rest places. Vasota is historical fort in Maharastra, which is surrounded by water one side and dense forest by other. Vasota or Bamnoli camping is heaven for trekkers and campers both. Vasota offers Mesmerizing views, pure water, thick forest and clean air. If you are wildlife enthusiast then surely you will find many species of birds and other animals in Jungle. And it is advised to go anywhere with local guide only and do not enter in area which is permitted by forest department. Camping is allowed near lake side or near by jungle area within village premises. Next morning one can trek to Vasota fort. Fort can be accessed via two route but permission is to use only one route now. First you need to cross reservoir water by boats, which takes 1.5 Hrs to actual trekking trail. Later, one needs to trek for 1.5 - 2 Hrs. Camping is not allowed at hilltop and forest officers ask every trekker to leave by 5 pm and entry after 2 pm is not allowed. Tariff for camping only starts from Rs 600 and for trekking you need to contact your host, as he can offer you best offer for guide and boat. Bamnoli village is base of all activities carried out nearby. From water sports, trekking, boating to camping. Bamnoli is 100 km from Pune and 240 km from Mumbai.
3. Mahabaleshwar / Panchgani / Tapola -
Mahabaleshwar is referred as Queen of Hills of Maharashtra. Mahabaleshwar is perfect weekend destination of any age group. Camping in Mahabaleshwar is available at so many hill tops, valleys and near by Strawberry farms. My favorite is Advait Valley Camping which offers unmatched beauty of krishna river view and valley. On other hand there is places at just 30 KM range like Tapola and Panchgani. Tapola is called as Mini Kashmir of Maharashtra, because of its scenic picturesque beauty. The magnificent surrounding hills makes this place perfect destination for camping in winters.
4. Pawana Lake camping -
Pawana Lake camping is one of most affordable and most convenient option for both Mumbaikar and Punekars. Pawana lake is artificial lake caused by Pawana water reservoir. Imagine camping at base of high peak mountains on lake side, cold breeze and skies full of millions of stars. Authentic Maharashtrian dishes are served at most of camping sites along with modern breakfast if available. Next morning you can simply go on lake side walk along blue lake water or enjoy water sports if available at camping site. Tariff per person may vary from Rs 700 to Rs 2000. There are tons of options available for every budget so go as per what your budget and comfort allows you. Distance between Pawana to pune is approx 65 km and 120 km from Mumbai.
